For more than 10 years, the United squad have been required to report to the Lowry Hotel on the evening before a match so their diet and sleep can be monitored – a rule introduced by Sir Alex Ferguson.

Both David Moyes and Louis van Gaal continued the tradition, as did Mourinho – who actually resides at the Lowry – during his first season at Old Trafford.

Ferguson introduced the rule that players must sleep at the Lowry before home games (Getty)

But now the Daily Mail report that Mourinho has ditched the rule, allowing players to spend the evening with their partners and families instead.

This began in the home match against West Ham, which produced a 4-0 win, though players did still gather at the Lowry for a pre-match meal and team meeting.

United romped to their biggest home win in four years after the rule change (Picture: Getty)

It is expected to continue when the Red Devils host Leicester City this coming Saturday, with Mourinho feeling that his players will benefit from home comforts.